Dons midfielder pens new two-year deal and wants to “put the wrongs right” following League One relegation
AFC Wimbledon midfielder Alex Woodyard has signed a new two-year extension with the club and wants to “put the wrongs right” following relegation to League Two last season.
Woodyard, who won the Players’ Player of the Year award last season, was included in the list of players the Dons were retaining after their relegation from League One.
The 29-year-old captain joined the South Londoners following his release from Peterborough United in 2020.
He played 40 games last season in all competitions but would suffer an injury in the penultimate home game of the season during the 1-1 draw with Wycombe Wanderers.
Woodyard has played 85 games over two seasons at Plough Lane.
Wimbledon finished 23rd in the League One table last season, only picking up six wins during the entire campaign.
“I’m absolutely delighted,” Woodyard told Wimbledon’s YouTube channel after extending his stay.
“I’m delighted that the club has shown the same ambition I have in the club as they have got in me – it’s really positive.
“I’ve enjoyed my first two years here as I’ve got a good relationship with all the boys, the staff, and the fans. I’m really pleased to have signed the new deal.”
“As a footballer, you have got to weigh up different options. You have got to listen to different things, and whether you pursue them or not is a different matter.
“But, ultimately, my heart was always set on playing for Wimbledon long term. It was important for me to get another two years to put the wrongs right from last year.”
Johnnie Jackson will be the fourth manager of Woodyard’s time with the Dons.
The 39-year-old replaced Mark Bowen, who ruled himself out of the running for the job to take up the role as head of football operations at Reading.
Jackson guided Charton to League One safety last season after taking over with the club in the relegation zone but had his contract terminated at the end of the campaign.
“I’ve spoken to the new gaffer briefly. It was a general chat about what he’s going to bring to the club and what his ambitions are,” added Woodyard.
“He’s obviously a good, young manager who did very well at Charlton. I’m excited to work with him, and hopefully, he can improve me as a player.”
PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD
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